Choosing the right paint roller

The fabric is referred to as pile or nap. The nap type and length determines the finish, with the longer nap often leaving a pattern on the surface. The choice of roller is dependent on the type of paint being used and the surface being painted.

NB: Velour rollers – foam with a ‘light orange/pink” membrane are increasingly popular and result in a finish close to that of sprayed application, when using non drip polyurethanes/enamels like Plascon Velvaglo.

What should I look for to determine if a roller is of good quality?

Run your hand over the roller to see if it sheds any lint. If it doesn’t, it’s probably a good roller.

Check both ends of the roller to see if there is any fabric hanging over either end. Good quality rollers are "bevelled” and there should be no overhanging fabric.

Look for the seam in the roller. If you don’t see one, then it is probably a good roller. If you see any gaps in the roller or loose backing at either end that means the roller is of inferior quality.

The quality of the fabric together with the method used to manufacture a roller impacts on the quality of the end product and ultimately on the quality of the paint job.

How does a good quality roller benefit me and my painting project?

Saves times and produces a quality finish. Quality rollers hold more paint and allow for an even film thickness, (levels the paint finish without shadows or valleys). Cheaper rollers often result in a number of coats having to be applied, which is costly and time consuming. A quality paint roller: